For many APO pledges, they waited anxiously for a Big pairing. The role of a Big is to help guide their Little through the pledging process. They give advice, make sure you complete all of the requirements, but more importantly the Big will hopefully become one of your best friends. The pledge guides help to pair a pledge with a brother who they think will pair best with them. The pledge guides also help you know the brothers a little more by hosting “Speeding Dating” events for Bigs and Littles. The pledges are able to learn a little more about the brothers and also think of a potential Big for the pairing. This year the pledge guides did a great job in pairing the Bigs and Littles.

There have been many Big/Little events where the pairs have been able to bond. Some events include Rey Azteca dinner and laser tag. Being a pledge myself, one of my favorite Big/Little events was making a paddle with my Big. While the paddle is up to mostly the pledge, the Bigs are able to inspire some paddle ideas with their Littles.

Spending time with my Big, Lauren Thigpen has been amazing. I have formed a friendship and cannot wait for the rest of the year. My Big has not only been a great guide in APO, but also in my college experience. She has given great advice and has certainly exceeded my expectations to have a Big who is also my friend. Having a Big/Little is just another way APO has fulfilled the friendship part of Leadership, Friendship and Service. I cannot wait until I can finally have a Little of my own and let them as great as a time I have had.